copied with permission from
The Shawnee News-Star
215 N. Bell
Shawnee, OK 74801

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Apr. 16, 2006

Roberta (Beleele) Duncan

Tecumseh resident Roberta (Beleele) Duncan, 85, died Thursday, April 13, in Tecumseh.
Roberta was born Dec. 2, 1920, in Stroud to Charles Floyd and Lola Myrle (McVey) Beleele. She lived most of her life in Sterling and Tecumseh and, while raising her family, lived in California, New Mexico and Okinawa.

She attended grade school in Shamrock, Texas, and graduated from Sterling High School.

She married Willard D. Duncan on March 7, 1942, in San Antonio, Texas. He preceded her in death on May 3, 2004.

Roberta was a homemaker and was a member of Highland Church of Christ and a lifetime member of DAV. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and caring for her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two daughters, Linda Wilson and Mickey Foster; one granddaughter, Darlene Lyons; three brothers, James Beleele, George Beleele and David Beleele, and one sister, Helen Ezell.

She is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Phyllis and Jay Mallon of Verona, Pa.; one son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Lorraine Duncan of Tecumseh; one brother, Joe Beleele of Fort Collins, Colo.; 12 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Sterling Church of Christ with Adrian Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Sterling Cemetery.

Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is in charge of arrangements.


Vernon D. Hamilton

Stillwater resident Vernon D. Hamilton, 88, died Saturday, April 15, in Stillwater.
He was born Aug. 3, 1917, in Woodward to Vernon Drane and Sylvia Bell (Green) Hamilton. He attended Woodward High School and moved to Stillwater in 1935 to attend Oklahoma A&M College.

He married Anice Fern Gosnell on April 4, 1941, in Stillwater. She preceded him in death on Feb. 22, 2005.

From 1946 to 1997, Vernon was co-owner of Hamilton's Appliance, which he later named Hamilton Electronics. He owned Hamilton Communications.

He was a charter member of the Stillwater Boat Club, enjoyed the outdoors, enjoyed hunting and fishing and was known as one half of the "Fishing Hamiltons from Stillwater." He was Presbyterian.

He also was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Kenneth Hamilton.

Survivors include two sons, Alan R. Hamilton and his wife, Lynda, of Shawnee, and Gene E. Hamilton of Stillwater and his friend, Pat Bays, of Perkins; three grandchildren; Alana Hamilton of Shawnee, Fred Hamilton and his wife, Diane, of Norman and Michael D. Hamilton of Shawnee, and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Private services will be held. The family will greet visitors from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Strode Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, in care of Karen Ward, 106 E. Marie, Stillwater, OK 74075.


Raymond J. DeCoteau

McLoud resident Raymond J. DeCoteau, 68, died Thursday, April 13, at Unity Health Center.

He was born Aug. 8, 1937, in Belcourt, N.D., to Alfred and Margaret (Morin) DeCoteau. Raymond was married on Oct. 31, 1955, to Marie Kathryn DuBois.

He was in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1959. He was a truck driver until he retired.

Survivors include his wife, Marie, of the home; six sons and three daughters-in-law, Lonnie and Carol, Ray and Georgia and Kenny, all of Midwest City; Michael, Jamie and Carla and Randy, all of Oklahoma City; one daughter and son-in-law, Dawn and Thomas Ramey of Tecumseh; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

There will be a private family memorial.


Robert Daniel Alcorn Sr.

Robert Daniel Alcorn Sr. of Oklahoma City, loving husband and father, passed away Thursday, April 6, in Weslaco, Texas. Robert and Lorene, his wife of 63 years, had been spending the winter in South Texas where they had lived from 1992 to 2004.
Born July 21, 1921, in Muskogee, Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Aletha and Sherman Russell Alcorn; brothers, Sherman Russell Alcorn and Jay Alcorn, and sister, Joy Alcorn Tara.

Robert is survived by wife, Lorene Long Alcorn; children, Robert Daniel Alcorn Jr., Esther Alcorn Brazeal, Bradford Allen Alcorn, all of Oklahoma City; and Luke Charles Alcorn and his wife, Debi, of Joliet, Ill.; grandchildren, Robert Daniel Alcorn III and wife, Danna, of Harlingen, Texas; Tara Bren Alcorn Cortese and husband, Jay, of Amarillo, Texas; Ross Dean Brazeal of Germantown, Md.; great-grandchildren, Robert Daniel Alcorn IV, Taylor Ray Alcorn and Brady James Cortese; brother, Fay Orra Alcorn and his wife, Sue; sister, Mary Lou Lennon; niece, Carolyn Alcorn Clow, and nephew, Russell Charles Alcorn.

While living in Bristow, with his aunt and uncle, the A.A. Allens, Robert was National Debate Champion in 1939 and runner-up in 1940. As a result of his speech and debating skills, Robert entered Oklahoma Baptist University on a scholarhip in 1940.

Along with many of his classmates, Robert enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942, served until 1945 and was discharged with the rank of captain. Trained as a pilot and navigator, Robert continued flying for a number of years while in business in Shawnee.

Robert and Lorene met while attending high school in Bristow and were married in Elko, Nev., Aug. 6, 1943.

Robert graduated from OBU in 1952 and was chosen OBU Alumni Director in 1964, where he served until 1975. He retired from the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission in 1986.

Robert will be remembered for the love of his family, helping others while never seeking attention. He was truly one of God's servants and passed these qualities on to his children.

Service with military honors will be conducted 2 p.m. Wednesday at Fort Gibson National Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to Bristow Historical Society, P.O. Box 1224, Bristow OK 74010.


Jack Everett Belcher

Former Shawnee and Dale resident Jack Everett Belcher, 91, died Friday, April 14, at a Clinton hospital.
Services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene in Clinton with the Rev. Rick Brewster officiating. Burial will be at 3 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery in Woodward.

Stanley-Lee Funeral Home of Clinton is directing arrangements.

published Apr. 18, 2006

Frank "Grandpa" Little Axe

Lifelong Little Axe resident Frank "Grandpa" Little Axe, 99, passed Sunday, April 16, in Norman.
He was born Feb. 17, 1907 in Little Axe to Billy and Agnes (Blanchard) Little Axe.

Mr. Little Axe married Edna Little Charley in Little Axe.

He worked for The University of Oklahoma for 26 years and retired from The University of Oklahoma golf course in 1972. He was also a farmer.

Mr. Little Axe was a member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, where he mowed the lawn and did maintenance until he was 97.

Grandpa enjoyed fishing, shooting pool, golfing, exercising, lifting weights, riding his tractor and watching OU football and basketball games. He also enjoyed watching bull riding and western movies.

He was preceded in death by his wife on May 5, 1965; his parents; and one daughter, Aileen Ellis.

Surviving relatives include his daughter and son-in-law, Lorene and Charles Little Jim of Little Axe; grandchildren, Clint Jason and Lisa Little Jim, Dina Adele and Mike Bread, and Chuck Little Jim, all of Little Axe, Phillip Steven and Pam Ellis of Albuquerque, NM, Christy Lorraine and Tim Sams of Tecumseh, Kevin Mark Ellis of Shawnee, Shannon Dana and Donnie Smith of Tecumseh, and Holly Diana Ellis of Shawnee; fifteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; numerous nieces, nephews, his extended church family and personal friends.

Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Cornerstone Baptist Church with the Rev. Bryce Scott officiating. Burial will follow at the Little Axe Family Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Cooper Funeral Home. The casket will not be opened during the funeral service.


Charlotte McMakin Dilliner

Shawnee resident Charlotte McMakin Dilliner, 83, died Monday, April 17, at Golden Rule Nursing Home of natural causes.
Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m today at Gaskill Funeral Chapel.

Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Gaskill Funeral Chapel with Michael Smith and Carl Schaffer officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven under the direction of Gaskill Funeral Chapel.


Kay E. Mullins

Longtime Seminole resident Catherine E. "Kay" Mullins died Saturday, April 15, at her home. She was 86.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church in Seminole with the Rev. Tommy Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Seminole, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole.


Paul E. Nelson

McLoud resident Paul E. Nelson, 68, died Sunday, April 16.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Hazel Dell Baptist Church, McLoud. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Meeker.


Johnie William Stanka

Carney resident Johnie William Stanka, 83, died Saturday, April 15, at his home.
Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church in Carney with the Rev. Joe Merrell officiating. Burial will follow at Carney Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.


Richard Lamar Horton

Shawnee resident Richard Lamar Horton, 47, died Sunday, April 16, at a local hospital.
A celebration of life will be held in South Carolina.

Visitation will be 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Service.


Alton Sloan

Shawnee resident Alton Sloan, 84, died Monday, April 17, at the VA hospital in Oklahoma City of natural causes.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at Gaskill Funeral Chapel.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Gaskill Funeral Chapel with Wayne Sloan officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Gaskill Funeral Chapel.


Curtis Dean Haynes

48-year-old Seminole resident Curtis Dean Haynes passed from this life Saturday, April 15, at his home.
He was born Aug. 7, 1957, in Los Angeles, Calif., to Elmer and Roxie Shirlene (Miller) Haynes.

Curtis lived most of his life in Seminole where he was in self-employed maintenance and landscaping.

He was a member of Snake Creek Baptist Church. He graduated from Varnum High School and Seminole State College.

On Nov. 28, 1980, he married Carol Hinds in Prague.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; his parents, Roxie and Elmer Haynes of Prague; two brothers and sister-in-law, Delbert and Vickie Haynes of Muskogee, James Haynes of Seminole; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Delberta and Andrew Vallejo of Seattle, Wash., Andrea and Donald Burrough of Prague, Karen Collier of Shawnee, Catherine and Justin Clemons of McLoud; aunts and uncles, Dewayne and Linda Miller, Reo Miller, Ester Fourkiller, Joanne and Newman Factor, Arlis and Sam Banagas, Tojuna and Gary Cole, Cindy Miller, Angeline and Justin Fawcett; nieces and nephews, Danita Vallejo, April Haynes, Verina Collier, Nathan Henry, Denise Vallejo, Leanne Collier, A-yo Henry and Mes-ke Collier; numerous other family and friends.

Casket bearers will be Howard Harjo, Michael Winip, Nathan Henry, A-yo Henry, Karlin Postoak and Jason Fourkiller. Honorary casket bearers will be Chuck Hinds, Delbert Haynes, Dewayne Miller, Don Hinds, James Haynes and Reo Miller.

Wake service will be 6 p.m. Tuesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Seminole. Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Freewill Baptist Church, Prague, with the Rev. Frankie Moppin officiating assisted by Randall Miller. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery.

published Apr. 19, 2006

Mary Jo Moore

Meeker resident Mary Jo Moore, 78, died Tuesday, April 18.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker. Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Chandler is directing arrangements.


Martha Emma Rowe

Shawnee resident Martha Emma Rowe, 95, died Saturday, April 15, at a local hospital.
She was born Sept. 28, 1910, in Moscow, Fayette County, Tenn., to Walter Lee Kennon Sr. and Lula Frances (Allen) Kennon.

Martha and her family came to Shawnee by train in 1919 where she has lived her entire life.

She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.

Her husband Wilbur C. Rowe and three sons, Harold "Shorty" Weaver, Nathan G. Weaver and Keith A. Rowe, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Curtis and Charlotte Rowe of Poteau; two daughters, Fran Valdez of Eugen, Ore., and Sharon Campbell of Shawnee; seven grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Resthaven Memorial Park with Robert Perry officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Zola Margaret (Falkenstein) Jones  

Zola Margaret (Falkenstein) Jones went to be with her Lord Sunday, April 16, 2006.
Zola Margaret (Falkenstein) Jones was born April 30, 1917, in Chandler to Claude and Hatie (Day) Falkenstein. She was reared on a farm in Beaver County and attended the LaKemp School in Beaver County. Zola graduated from Chandler High School.

Zola was a member of Central Presbyterian Church and then United Presbyterian Church. She had been a long standing member of the Evening Bible Study at both churches. She taught Sunday School to the Nursery Class at Central and received the Honorary Life Membership from the Presbyterian Women in 1980. She was lovingly known as "Mama Jones" to many children she cared for,.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Jones; sister, Ruth Ann Falkenstein of Denver, Colo.; brother-in-law, Dale Oldham of Woodward; nieces, Sue and husband, Allan Crump, of Maumelle, Ark., and Vera Farmer of Reno, Nev.; nephews, Rick and wife, Mary Evans, of Chandler, Dan Oldham of Woodward and Larry and wife, Linda Oldham, of Atoka.

She was preceded in death by her son, Max Wayne Jones; parents; sisters, Bessie Mae Oldham and Florence Evans and nephew, Mike Oldham.

Service will be 1 p.m. today at Gaskill Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Bob Scrutchins and Dave Lewis officiating. She will be buried at New Zion Cemetery, Chandler.


Marjorie Jean Cooke

Shawnee resident Marjorie Jean Cooke died Tuesday, April 18, at her home. She was 75.
Marjorie was born Aug. 24, 1930, in Shawnee to Robert and Margaret Hart.

She graduated from St. Benedict High School.

On July 11, 1949, she married Clarence (Gene) Cooke Jr.

Marjorie worked 42 1/2 years for BancFirst, formerly Federal National Bank, retiring at the age of 65. She was the assistant cashier over the savings department and certificates of deposit.

She enjoyed her family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling, swimming and gambling. She loved her cats.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband, Gene Cooke, of the home; two daughters, Cynthia Cooke of the home, Debbie Baker and her husband, Allan, of Choctaw; brother, Larry Hart and family of Lubbock, Texas.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Charles Massoth, O.S.B., officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.


Paul E. Nelson

McLoud resident Paul E. Nelson, 68, joined his Lord in Heaven on Easter Sunday, April 16.
Paul was born March 2, 1938, to Clifton and Thyra (Miller) Nelson of Oklahoma City.

He graduated from Northeast High School with the class of 1956 where he played football. He attended Oklahoma State University and graduated from The University of Oklahoma in 1960.

Paul served his country with the U.S. Air Force as a major. He was Commander of the 937th Air Evac Unit at Tinker Air Force Base.

He owned and operated Northeast Wrecker Service in Oklahoma City, he also owned Paul Nelson Ford in Jones and raised cattle at the Flying "N" Ranch in McLoud.

Paul was a member of the Jones Chapter of the Masonic Lodge, a 32nd degree Mason and a past member of the India Shrine Temple. He was an active member of the Republican Party in Lincoln County and a member of Hazel Dell Baptist Church in McLoud.

Paul loved the Lord, his wife, "Pearl," his children and his grandchildren.

His parents; one brother, Clifford Nelson of Lusby, Md.; and his beloved dog, Halfer, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Myrna Nelson of the home; one son and daughter-in-law, Troy and Trish Greenfield of Fredericksburg, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Angie and Tawn Rose of Southlake, Texas; six grandchildren, Deseree' Brown and her husband, Dustin of Stillwater, Chelsea Chantz, Destiny and Chaney Rose of Southlake, Texas, and Colton Greenfield of Fredericksburg, Texas; one brother and sister-in-law, Jimmie Jack and Beth Nelson of Lusby, Ma.; and two sisters-in-law, Barbara Nelson of Lusby, Ma., and Vicky Downey and her husband, Don of Woodward.

Service will be held 2 p.m. Friday at Hazel Dell Baptist Church in McLoud with Pastor Mike Brumley officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Meeker.

Visitation will be at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Meeker.

A guestbook is available to share your memories online. Please visit www.ParksBrothers.net.


Charlotte McMakin Dilliner

Shawnee resident Charlotte McMakin Dilliner, 83, went home to her heavenly Father Monday, April 17, following a brief illness.
Charlotte was born to W.C. and Ella McMakin on March 11, 1923, in Shawnee. She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1941. She married George W. Dilliner on Aug. 11, 1946. George preceded her in death July 11, 1970.

Charlotte faithfully attended the Church of God Chapel where she was blessed with the gift of singing. She sang alto in a trio with her beloved brother and sister, Bill McMakin and Mary Dunavan. She also spent many hours playing Skip-Bo and going out to dinner with her precious sister, Wanda Billingsly. Her brother, James, the family humorist, kept in touch with his letters from California.

Charlotte was a skilled seamstress, a cook at Shawnee Medical Center Hospital and the a home health caretaker until her retirement at age 79. Her most significant calling was being a homemaker and raising four children that she dearly loved.

Charlotte loved being with people and enjoyed hosting Tuesday night "family night" at her home. Charlotte was kind to everyone she met and her sweet spirit will be remembered fondly by all. She truly exemplified the phrase, "Let others see Jesus in you."

Survivors include three daughters, LaDonna and her husband, Mike Burton, of Duncan, Cheri Bockhold and Christy Young, both of Shawnee; son, Tracy and his wife, Saundra Dilliner, of Shawnee; brothers and their spouses, Bill and Louise McMakin of Shawnee, James and Lorraine McMakin of Oxnard, Calif.; sisters, Mary and her husband, Lloyd Dunavan, and Wanda Billingsly of Shawnee; dear sister-in-law, Christine Dilliner Meyer of Phoenix, Ariz.; nine grandchildren, Kari Creekmore, Tari Hicks, Alan Reece, Kevin Varnell, Holly Johnson, Andrew and Jessica Young, Blake and Trace Dilliner; 17 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Gaskill Owens Funeral Chapel with Brothers Michael Smith, Brother Carl Shaffer and Sister Anna Smith. Burial will follow at Resthaven Cemetery.

published Apr. 20, 2006

Richard Lamar Horton

Shawnee resident Richard Lamar Horton, passed away on Sunday, April 16, at a local hospital. Visitation with family and reflections on Richard's life will be at Walker Funeral Service Saturday, April 22, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Celebration of life will be at Oakland Baptist Church in Rock Hill, S.C., at a later date.
He was born May 14, 1958, in Louisville, Ky., to Dr. William Lamar Horton and Peggy Ann Small Horton.

Horton graduated from Shawnee High School and did extensive studies at Gordon Cooper Vo-tech in aircraft and EMT. He attended Oklahoma Baptist University, South Oklahoma City Community College, Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences- Medicine and Nursing, University of Kansas, California School of Health and Sciences and Harvard Health Sciences and Technology. He completed a BS Degree in Health Sciences, Masters in hospital administration and was a doctoral candidate in the health and science research, always learning more to help people with specific health needs.

Horton's career included Shawnee Municipal Airport assistant to Fred Reese, Emergency Medical Services at Empact (Shawnee)- graduate REMT- supervisor paramedic; Paramedic Program Director, Gordon Cooper Vo-tech; Amcare (Oklahoma City) Paramedic Supervisor; Seminole Emergency Services- Advanced Paramedic; Oklahoma Med Star (Lawton) director; Guthrie Fire Dept.- Instructor; Assistant Director, Kansas City International Paramedical Services, Kansas City, Mo. He was instructor for numerous courses in emergency medicine in Oklahoma and Kansas City.

Horton was a certified soaring pilot at Bermuda High Soaring School, at age 14; private pilot at Keith Aviation, at age 16, certified scuba diver-rescue; and certified med-flight paramedic. His love and knowledge of aeronautics and space was amazing.

Horton was a member of Soaring Society of America, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, National Emergency Technician Association, Oklahoma Emergency Technician Association, America Trauma Society, American Heart Instructor Association, American Society of Law, Medicine and Ethics, American Society for Bioethics and Humanities.

Horton loved his family dearly and is survived by his mother, Peggy of the home; two brothers and a sister, Ronald and Dr. Theresa Horton of Beijing, China; Randy and Cimarron Horton of Brandon, Fla., Julie-Anne Horton and Kenton Selvey of New York City. He adored his niece and nephews, Allie Ann, Conor, Jack and Jimmy Horton of Beijing, China and Carter Horton of Brandon, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Luther and Ruth Horton of Rock Hill, S.C. and Nadie and Robert Small of Lancaster, S.C., and his father, Dr. William Lamar Horton of Shawnee.

Memorials may be made to the Horton Scholarship at Oklahoma Baptist University, 500 W. University, Shawnee, Ok 74804, or to Emmanuel Episcopal Organ Fund, 501 N. Broadway, Shawnee, Ok 74801.


Mary Cannon

Former Oklahoma City and Shawnee resident Mary June Lafferty Cannon, 81, died Sunday, April 16, in Leander, Texas, following a battle with cancer.
She was born April 10, 1925, in Hockerville, Okla. She attended grade school in New Lima, Wewoka and Oklahoma City. She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1944. She was married to Henry Cannon in 1944. Mary was a homemaker, mother and also worked beside her husband in his business for many years. She also worked for C&C Electric in Bethany for several years. She retired and later moved to Leander to be near her son and daughter.

Mary is survived by her mother, Ruby, of Shawnee; her daughter and son-in-law, Sherry and Gary Banks of Leander; son, Michael of Leander; three grandchildren, Davielle (Baustert) Frahm of San Antonio, Texas, Tony Baustert of Union City, Lori (Banks) Murcheson of Austin, Texas; four great-grandchildren, Forrest, Trace and Caleigh Frahm of San Antonio and Jozlyn Murcheson of Austin, Texas; brother, Jim Lafferty of Mustang; numerous other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Resthaven Memorial Park. Beck Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.


Glenice Rose Musgrove

Harrah resident Glenice Rose (Carpenter) Musgrove, 50, died Tuesday, April 18, in Harrah.
Services will be 10 a.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church, Harrah, with the Rev. Elbert Savage, Rev. Steve Savage and Mr. David Brassfield officiating. Burial will be 12:30 p.m. at Paden Cemetery under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service in Harrah.


James Stewart

Macomb resident James Stewart, 73, died Wednesday, April 19, in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Chad Brodrick officiating. Burial will follow at Arlington Cemetery, Midwest City, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


Woodrow Wilson Harper

Cromwell resident Woodrow Wilson Harper, 93, died Wednesday, April 19, at the Norman Veteran Center.
A private family memorial service will be held following cremation at the family's request.


Marjorie Jean Cooke

Shawnee resident Marjorie Jean Cooke died Tuesday, April 18, at her home. She was 75.
Marjorie was born Aug. 24, 1930, in Shawnee to Robert and Margaret Hart.

She graduated from St. Benedict High School.

On July 11, 1949, she married Clarence (Gene) Cooke Jr.

Marjorie worked 42 1/2 years for BancFirst, formerly Federal National Bank, retiring at the age of 65. She was the assistant cashier over the savings department and certificates of deposit.

She enjoyed her family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling, swimming and gambling. She loved her cats.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband, Gene Cooke, of the home; two daughters, Cynthia Cooke of Oklahoma City, Debbie Baker and her husband, Allan, of Choctaw; brother, Larry Hart and family of Lubbock, Texas.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with Father Charles Massoth, O.S.B., officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.


Leona Thompson

A longtime past resident of Tribbey, Leona, 90, died Sunday, April 16, in Golden Rule Home.
She was born Sept. 21, 1915, near Tribbey to William L. Roberts Jr. and Vanoria (Wright) Roberts. She was the youngest and last living member of eight children.

Leona attended and graduated from Tribbey High School in 1934. While in high school she participated in baseball, basketball and other school activities while pursuing her education.

Following high school, Leona assisted her parents on their farm as well as working away from home picking cotton and as a housekeeper.

She married Clyde Thompson January 10, 1942 and they joyfully lived together 42 years until his death in December 1984.

Leona and her husband were active in Tribbey Baptist Church, as were her parents before her. She was church pianist, sang and taught bible class, performed as the treasurer/secretary, and was active in providing service to church and community. Leona was well known for her cooking and often provided the pastor, family & friends with Sunday dinner consisting of the best fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, chocolate cake and apple pie around. She enjoyed her family and enjoyed cooking for them during their visits.

Leona loved to play the piano and played a medley of gospel tunes every afternoon that could be heard and enjoyed by anyone near her home.

Leona's goal was to serve the Lord and to give her family the best care that she could provide through homemaking skills of cooking, housekeeping, sewing, washing and ironing. Leona was always a careful steward of her resources and expressed her love by doing for others.

When asked for her opinion, Leona would give it with honesty and with respect. She will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved her.

Preceding her in death were her parents; two brothers, Pryde and Martin Roberts; five sisters, Ruth Burlison, Gussie Russel, Luta Bowerman, Ruby Beene and Esther Derryberry.

Survivors include her daughter Sandra Watson of Shawnee; two grandsons and their spouses, Steve and Yusenda Wheeler of Shawnee, and Tony and Muriel Wheeler of Earlsboro; one great-grandson, Eric Wheeler of Shawnee; and two step great-grandchildren, Ronnie Wano and Adrian Wano of Earlsboro, and many other relatives and friends.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh with Rev. W.F. Crow and Ray Wade officiating. Burial will follow at Tribbey Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


B. Carol Eaton

Shawnee resident B. Carol Eaton, 61, went to be with her Lord and Savior Monday, April 17, after many years of poor health.
Carol was born April 26, 1944, in Huntington Park, Los Angeles County, Calif. She was raised and spent most of her life in Oklahoma City and graduated from John Marshall High School in 1962.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Atwell Eaton and Nellie Lucille Long Eaton; and her little dog, Bridgette.

She is survived by her only child, Jamie L. Clay and her husband, Russell D. Clay, and their children, Bradley Kurt Hargis, Clint Matthew Hargis, Justin Lee Clay, Kayla Runia Clay and Brianna Maree Clay, all of Shawnee; siblings and spouses, Treva and Gerald Schuler of Harrah, Charles and Alice Eaton of Rose Hill, Kan., Shirley Stevens of Oklahoma City, Dianne and Rich Martines of Oklahoma City; uncle, Estle and Kathleen Eaton of Oklahoma City; 10 nieces and nephews; many cousins; best friend, Beverly Houston of Harrah; numerous other loved ones and friends who will miss her wit, her laughter and her many long stories.

Carol loved in life mostly her daughter, family, friends, nurses and staff. She enjoyed playing with her five grandchildren, visiting with her loved ones, watching the horses and learning new things on her computer. Her love will live in our hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life will be 10 a.m. Friday at The Salvation Army of Shawnee, 200 E. 9th, with Captain Carlyle Gargis officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to The Salvation Army of Shawnee.


Richard L. Underwood

McLoud resident Richard L. Underwood, 58, died Monday, April 17.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Bill Eisenhour Southeast Chapel in Del City. Burial will follow at Arlington Memory Gardens in Midwest City under the direction of Bill Eisenhour Funeral Home, Del City.

published Apr. 21, 2006

Kenneth Eugene (Gene) Peltier Jr.

Shawnee resident Kenneth Eugene (Gene) Peltier Jr. died Wednesday, April 19, at a local hospital.
Gene was born Aug. 12, 1942, to Kenneth Peltier Sr. and Pauline Stegall Peltier in Shawnee. He graduated from Dale High School in 1961. He also graduated from two different small engine repair classes at Gordon Cooper Vo-Tech.

On Jan. 29, 1971, he married Donna Johnson in Seminole.

He was ranked as SP4 E/4 (T) in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War with earned medals of Marksman, AFEM, and the Vietnam Service Medal. He was a member of the American Legion in Tecumseh.

Gene worked at Tinker Field until his medical retirement.

He was a proud member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

Gene was loved by all who knew him for his great sense of humor and enjoyment of being with friends at the Citizen Potowatomi Nation Title VI elders program. He teased his way through many lunches, bingo and shuffleboard. He enjoyed taking his granddaughter, Haven, fishing at Shawnee Lake as often as possible.

Family reunions and playing horseshoes were his greatest love and he was able to play his last game of horseshoes two weeks before his death. This will be a wonderful memory for all of his family members.

Gene is preceded in death by his mother, Pauline Alice Stegall Peltier and an infant daughter, Laleta Lynn Peltier.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Johnson Peltier; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Reuben Peltier of Shawnee, and Kanton and Annie Peltier; granddaughter, Haven Peltier of Tecumseh; father, Kenneth Peltier Sr. and stepmother, Lillian Hale Peltier of Shawnee; one brother and his wife, Nicki and Delores (Smo) Peltier; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Tanya Peltier and Marsha (Peltier) and Bill Sims, all of Shawnee; four stepbrothers and wives, John and Cathy Hale of Pittsburgh, Pa., Rick and Cindy Hale of Tecumseh, Rusty and Lana Hale, and Rob and Karen Hale, all of Edmond. He is also survived by an aunt, Kathleen Kiker of Shawnee and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Norman Kiker officiating. Burial will follow at Dale Cemetery.

The family requests no flowers. Sympathy cards welcome. Send to: Donna Peltier, PO Box 3071, Shawnee, Ok 74802-3071


Richard Farrell Graham Jr.

Shawnee resident Richard (Ricky) Farrell Graham Jr., 35, died Tuesday, April 18, 2006, in an Oklahoma City hospital.
Ricky was born June 25, 1970, in Midwest City to Richard Farrell Graham and Sharon (Conn) Graham.

On Feb. 6, 1999, he married Kimberly Ellis in Shawnee.

He lived in Midwest City and Shawnee. Ricky worked at Shawnee Auto Pawn. He loved working on old cards and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Farrell Graham.

Survivors include his wife, Kimberly Sue Ellis Graham of the home; son, Richard Farrell Graham III of the home; mother, Sharon Graham of Shawnee; brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Faydra Graham of Midwest City; sister, Robyn Stewart of Shawnee; several nieces and nephews; and a large family of aunts, uncles, family and friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Church of the Living God with Pastor Keith Ward officiating. Burial will follow at Arlington Memory Garden, Midwest City,


James Stewart

James Stewart, 73, of Macomb, died Wednesday, April 19, 2006, in Oklahoma City.
Mr. Stewart was born July 10, 1932, to Nickolas "Nick" and Pearl (Hicks) Stewart. He was reared in Ringling and was a graduate of Ringling High School.

He served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

On April 11, 1957, he married Christine Clawson. Following his marriage, he lived in Midwest City until 1974, when he moved to Tribbey.

Mr. Stewart worked as a computer operator at Tinker Air Force Base for 31 years before retiring in 1988. He was a "Jack of all Trades." He enjoyed working with his hands and playing music at the Wanette and Wayne Senior Citizen Centers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Henry and John Vernon Stewart; and one sister, Catherine Newcomb.

Survivors include his wife, Chris Stewart of the home; two sons, Roger and Derral Stewart, both of Oklahoma City; one daughter, Vonnie Stewart of Moore; two grandsons, Lucas Whited of Oklahoma City and Steven Stewart of Mexico; one sister, Eula Faye Ford of Ringling.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Chad Brodrick officiating. Burial will follow in Arlington Cemetery in Midwest City under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh.


Margaret W. Walker

Meeker resident Margaret Wanda Walker, 50, died Tuesday, April 18, at Unity Health Center in Shawnee.
Margaret was born Jan. 20, 1956, in Visalia, Calif., the daughter of Homer Johnson and Dora Mae Johnson. She attended schools in the Oklahoma City area.

In 1972 she was married to Thomas Schmidt and later divorced. She then married Charles Walker in 1999.

Margaret worked as a truck driver and enjoyed being on the road. She also enjoyed being at home with family and friends and her pets, Molly, Digger and Jewel. Margaret was a wonderful person who cared deeply for other people. She was a very special person and a loving supportive wife. Her optimistic attitude and love of life will be missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Joe Dean Nunley; one sister, Marrie Peterson.

Survivors include her husband, Charles Walker; two sons, Jeff and Sylas; one grandson, Andrew; two brothers, Albie Johnson and David Johnson; five sisters, Geneva Davis, Martha Turman, Colleen Bell, Mary Duncan and Donna Parades; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at White Dove Cemetery in Sparks under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home.


Thelma Mae Keesee Breeding

Longtime Tecumseh resident Thelma Breeding, 80, died Wednesday, April 19, with her family at her side, in Tecumseh.
She was born March 3, 1926, in Wanette to John James Keesee and Cordelia Mae (Baker) Keesee. She attended school at Possum Trot near Wanette and was an active member of Jehovah's Witnesses. She dearly loved her family.

She was married twice and had eight children, six with James "Jim" Kesler and two with Ralph Raymond Breeding. Her children are, Thelma Jean Walker and son-in-law, Don Walker of Tecumseh, Raymond Leroy Kesler and daughter-in-law, Darlene Kesler of Shawnee, Johnathon "Delaine" Kesler and daughter-in-law, Linda Kesler of Tecumseh, Anthony Ray Kesler and daughter-in-law, Sherri Kesler of Tecumseh, Sondra Kay Auten and son-in-law Mike Auten of Tecumseh, Ronald Eugene Kesler and daughter-in-law, Jill Kesler of Auberry Calif., Mark Anthony Breeding and daughter-in-law, Diane Breeding of Shawnee, K.C. Breeding and daughter-in-law, Kim Breeding of Maud. She has 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, all of which she considered her "babies".

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Moyse "Shorty", James Wesley, Jester "Jet", Edward Carl and infant, Leroy Keesee; and one sister, Bertha Verna Baker.

Her memorial service will be held Saturday, April 22, at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Shawnee with Clay Talton officiating.


Garland L. Wayland Jr.

Chandler resident Garland L. Wayland Jr., 64, died Tuesday, April 18.
Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Chandler under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Bernard Kendrick Deer

Oklahoma City resident Bernard Kendrick Deer, 40, died Tuesday, April 18, in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Bah-Kho-Je Chen Tribal Complex with the Rev. Tom Morris officiating.

Burial will follow at Iowa Tribal Cemetery in Perkins under the direction of Strode Funeral Home.

published Apr. 22, 2006

Starland S. Davis

Okemah resident Starland S. Davis was born Oct. 9, 1922, in Paden to Thomas and Ora Davis. He went to be with Jesus, our Lord on Thursday, April 20, at his home. He was 83.
Starland proudly served his country with the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of the 45th Division, D. Company, 180th Infantry. In 1943 he was involved in the invasion of Sicily and then on to the invasion of Italy. He was involved in a total of seven invasions, which earned his seven silver battle stars for his part in the invasion. He ended up in Munich, Germany, and spent two months on guard at the prison camp at Dauchau before being shipped home in June of 1945 with the rank of corporal.

He and Wanda Lou Wren were married May 19, 1947, in Castle, Oklahoma.

Starland retired from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation after 26 years as foreman of Okfuskee County.

He was an active member of the community of Okemah as well as such organizations as the Okemah Masonic Lodge No. 234, McAlester Scottish Rite, 32nd Mason, Knights Commander Court of Honor, India Shrine Temple, VFW, American Legion, and the Okemah Historical Society. He also was an avid horseman and rancher.

He will be greatly remembered for his love and loyalty to family and friends and will be greatly missed.

Starland was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, Thomas, Garrett, Baxter, Jack, and Garland; three sisters, Dorothy, Anna Mae, and Georgia; and one great-grandson Cross.

Survivors include his wife, Wanda Lou Davis of Okemah; one son, G. W. Davis and wife, Susan of Oklahoma City; two grandsons, Garrett Davis and wife, Lyndie of Okemah and Thomas Davis and wife, Justice of Oklahoma City; two great-grandchildren, Torrie and Colton; three sisters, Jane Nelson of El Reno, Pansy McAnally of Prague, and Lucretia Hagen of Santa Anna, Calif.; special brother and sister in laws, Glenn Wren, Billy and Wilma Wren; and a host of loving nephews and nieces.

Funeral service for Starland S. Davis will be held Saturday, April 22, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Okemah. Burial is to follow at the Paden Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Home and officiated by Bro. Starland Davis.

published Apr. 23, 2006

Anna Mae Holdaway

Anna Mae Holdaway, 86, Stroud, died Saturday, April 22, 2006.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, 2006, at Freewill Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Stroud Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service Stroud.


Cecil R. Forrest

Paden resident Cecil R. Forrest, 69, died Saturday, April 15, 2006, in Bristow.
A memorial service will be 1 p.m. Sunday, April 30, 2006, at Love Invasion Church in Prague with Pastor Dan Wing officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

published Apr. 25, 2006

Mike Hassen

Shawnee resident Mike Hassen, 95, joined his God in Heaven on April 22, 2006.
Mike was born May 22, 1910, to Ferris and Yecute Hassen of Shawnee.

He attended O.B.U. He owned and operated, Hassen's Ranch Market-Public Market Auction and Appraisal Service.

Mike was a member of Shawnee Chapter of the Masonic Lodge, a 32nd Degree Mason and member of India Shrine Temple.

He was a member of Day Star Bible Baptist Church in Shawnee.

Mike loved his wife Wahidee, his children and grandchildren, great and great great grandchildren, parents Farris, Yecute Hassen deceased, brother Happy Hassen, deceased, son Buddy Jameel Hassen deceased.

Survivors include wife of the home Wahidee Hassen, a daughter Zahea Nappa-Austin,Texas, son Fareed Hassen, daughter Gay Donna Ott of Shawnee, daughter-in-law Ruth Ann Hassen of Shawnee. He had 9 grand children, 16 great grand children, 5 great great grand children.

Family visitation is 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday only. Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Resthaven Chapel. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Resthaven Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.


Lonnie Gene Folks

Tecumseh resident Lonnie Gene Folks passed away Sunday, April 23, at the age of 56. He was born Dec. 6, 1949, to Charles and Jennie (Florer) Folks in Shawnee.
Lonnie enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed helping others.

Lonnie attended the Highland Church of Christ in Tecumseh.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Stephen and Rickey Folks; a nephew, Wayne Folks.

Survivors include two brothers and sisters-in-law, Lindy and Sue Folks of Shawnee, David and Lena Folks of Tecumseh; nephews, Jason, Todd and Shawn Folks; one niece, Summer Folks.

Viewing will be 1 p.m. Wednesday. Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Church of Christ, Hwy 9 in Tecumseh, with the Rev. Bob Anderson officiating.

Lena M. Cheek

Longtime Okemah resident Lena Cheek, 94, died Sunday, April 23, in Seminole.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Okemah with the Rev. Bob Younts officiating.. Burial will follow at the Highland Cemetery in Okemah.


Owen Albert Johnston

Stroud resident Owen Albert Johnston died Friday, April 21, in Cushing at the age of 91.
Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Stroud.


Phyllis Joy (Nance) Cole

Shawnee resident Phyllis Joy (Nance) Cole, 77, died Friday, April 21, at her residence.
Memorial service will be 2 p.m. today at Temple Baptist Church with the Rev. Mike Craig and the Rev. John Nance officiating.

Gaskill Funeral Chapel is directing arrangements.

published Apr. 26, 2006

Anna M. White

Anna M. White was born May 23, 1937, in Minco, OK, to Thomas Erin and Joyce Daphine (Jester) Meyers. She passed away Monday, April 24, 2006, at the Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City at the age of 68.
Anna graduated from Minco High School.

She was a homemaker. Anna worked as a convenience store clerk, farmed watermelons and wheat, and retired as a CNA at the Red Rock Manor Nursing Home in Hinton.

On July 26, 1988, she was united in marriage to Robert White.

She was baptized at the Hazel Dell Baptist Church.

Anna enjoyed hunting, fishing, feeding hummingbirds and planting flowers. Anna was an A shot with a rifle and taught her grandchildren to shoot.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Joyce Meyers, and one brother, Earl Halverson.

Survivors include her husband, Robert White of the home; three daughters, Sherry Lankford and her husband, Jerry, of Shawnee, Tracy Robertson and her husband, Jerry, of Perry, and Tammy Westbrook and her husband, Mike, of Binger; four grandchildren, Chisum Westbrook of Binger, Heather Pafford and her husband, Jeremy, of Oklahoma City, Tyler Nida, U.S. Coast Guard, Perry, and John Dowling and his wife, Janie, of Edmond; four great-grandchildren, Tyler Pafford of Oklahoma City and Caleb Herrera, Parker, and Anabelle Dowling, all of Edmond; siblings, Judy Hunt, Danny Meyers, Tommy Meyers, Jim Goodman, Dora Stone, and Freddie Jo Lane.

In lieu of flowers the family request memorial donations to the American Cancer Society of Oklahoma.

Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday at the Pentecostal Holiness Church in Hinton with the Rev. Dan Manning officiating.

Services under the direction of the Hinton-Turner Funeral Home, Hinton, OK


Gregory Bert Cater

Shawnee resident Gregory Bert Cater, 43, died Sunday, April 23, at his home.
On Dec. 13, 1962, he was born to Charles Thomas and Alice Iretha (Carr) Cater in Alva.

Gregory has lived in Shawnee for the past two years, in Macomb for seven years and Dibble for seven years. He was raised in Oklahoma City and attended school at South East Oklahoma City.

He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserves.

On May 8, 1981, Gregory and Amanda Marlowe united in marriage in Gainesville, Texas.

Gregory was a truck driver, worked at Jet Power Lines, I & R Trucking and Butler Brothers. He attended Oklahom Baptist Church in Pink and enjoyed the Sci-Fi Channel and fishing.

Cody Lee Cater, his infant son, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Amanda Cater of the home; children, Gregory Bert Cater, Jr. and Fiance, Tana Kara Caldwell of Tecumseh, Brandy Jean Cater of Tecumseh; parents, Charles and Alice Cater of Tecumseh; mother-in-law, Carol Jean Brown of Dibble; brothers, Rocky Thomas Cater of Tecumseh, Charles Walker Cater and wife Kathy of Macomb, Michael Preston Pruitt and wife, Toni of Tecumseh; sister, Elizabeth Jane Wilson and husband, Greg of Earlsboro; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family who will miss him greatly.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Wadley's Funeral Chapel, Purcell, with Pastor Steve Lance officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wadley Funeral Service, PO Box 903, Purcell, Ok 73080.


Leota Gillian

Chandler resident Leota Gillian died Tuesday, April 25, at the age of 86.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.


Edward Thomas Long

Edward Thomas "E.T." Long, 83, loving husband, father and grandfather, was born in Konawa on Nov. 13, 1922, went home to be with his Lord on April 24.
He grew up around Konawa and graduated from Vamoosa High School. He served during World War II for the U.S. Army in the 348th Engineering Division, landing on Normandy.

On Oct. 26, 1947, he married Vera Beasley.

Edward was a construction worker for many years and was a pastor of Bible Baptist Church in Shawnee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Viola (Carriger) Long; two brothers and four sisters; as well as three siblings that died at birth.

Survivors include his wife, Vera, of the home; two daughters, Diana Houston and her husband, Leon, and Pamela Thompson, all of Tecumseh; one son, Terry Long and his wife, Beth, of Afton; nine grandchildren, James Alldredge, Darian Richardson, Aaron Richardson, Nicholas Long, all of Shawnee, Melissa Schulze, Jennifer Long, and Shandra Long, all of Tecumseh, Steven Schulze of Goldsby and Janie Long of McLoud; five great-grandchildren, Cody, Cori, Sawyer, Edward Thomas Alldredge and Haylee Long, all of Shawnee; one sister, Mildred Gill of Whitesboro; one brother, Jay Long of Konawa; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Service with Brother Geary Sorrells, pastor of Day Star Bible Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Ida (Frances) Coffman

Harrah resident Ida (Frances) Coffman, 58, died Friday, April 21, in an Oklahoma City Hospital.
She was born Feb. 11, 1948, in Shawnee to William Robert and Billee Joee (Heskett) Campbell. She attended Bethel Acres High School.

On Aug. 1, 1967, she married Albert Coffman in Shawnee.

She was a homemaker and a member of the American Diabetes Association.

Her parents and a brother, Rob, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband, Albert Coffman; daughter and son-in-law, Janell and Scott Hammersberg; grandson, Jef Hammersberg; granddaughter, Chelsey Hammersberg; three brothers, David, Rick and Ernie Campbell; three sisters, Glenda Schammerhorn, Janice Harris and Joy Myers; many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, friends and neighbors.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Blackburn Chapel Baptist Church with the Rev. Bryan Cook and the Rev. Danny Cabaniss officating.

Burial will follow at Blackburn Chapel Cemetery.

published Apr. 27, 2006

Bonnie Marie Rooks

McLoud resident Bonnie Marie Rooks, 89, died Tuesday, April 25, in Midwest City.

She was born July 4, 1916, in Carbon, Okla., to adoptive parents, Lena Morrison and Virgil Wesley Church. She attended Tulsa Central High School.

On Dec. 6, 1936, she married Ellis A. Rooks. They were married for 61 years, until his death in 1998.

Bonnie was a mother of eight children, grandmother and homemaker. She was a member of McLoud First Baptist Church, she taught Sunday School, enjoyed playing the piano and watching the actor Charlston Heston in movies. She enjoyed watching home movies of her kids and grandkids, fishing, embroidery and riding around the pasture in a golf cart.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ellis A. Rooks; grandson, Bobby Claybrook, and great-granddaugher, Jessica Audet.

Survivors include four sons, Ellis A. Rooks Jr. of Harrah, David R. Rooks, Harvey G. Rooks and Virgil W. Rooks, all of McLoud; four daughter, Carolyn Claybrook of McLoud, Emma Dossey of Midwest City, Mary Hood and Alida Carpenter, both of McLoud; 25 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at McLoud First Baptist Church with the Rev. Ernest Graham officiating. Burial will follow at Dale Cemetery.


Ella Taylor

Ella Taylor
Fresno, Calif. resident EllaTaylor, 93, died Thursday April 20, in Fresno.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Prague Cemetery with Brother Paul Heard officiating. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.

published Apr. 28, 2006

Arvel Byron Conner

Former longtime Konawa resident Arvel Bryon "Pete" Conner, 94, died Wednesday, April 26, at Tuttle Care Center, Tuttle.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel, Konawa, with Pastor Quinton Kay officiating. Burial will follow at Vista Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.

published Apr. 29, 2006

Sarah M. Gentry

Sarah M. (Canada) Gentry went to be with her heavenly Father Thursday, April 27. He wanted to reunite her with her beloved husband, Herman Gentry, the day before what would have been their 74th wedding anniversary. Their 71 1/2 year marriage began in the Blackburn Chapel Bapist Church parsonage on April 28, 1932. Herman preceded her in death October 7, 2003.
Sarah was born Jun 1, 1911, to Archie and Elizabeth (LaCount) Canada on the homestead that her dad staked northwest of Shawnee during the Oklahoma Land Run of 1895. She and Herman attended Dale School, graduating together in 1929.

Sarah was an active member of the Dale United Methodist Church of 78 years, of which 47 were as church treasurer. She also served as Sunday School teacher and Methodist Youth Fellowship sponsor. Her recitations at church were truly enjoyed by all.

Memberships include the Broken Needle Club and the Dale PTA, of which she was a founding member and twice served as president.

Grandma Sarah loved to play cards. Her grandkids shared her love of the games, her stories of days gone by, and all the snacks that accompanied the games. Visitors can attest that you weren't long in her home before an offer of pop or something to eat was given.

Her home was always filled with family members who called her mom, son Robert Gentry and friend Norma Jean Cox of Shawnee; daughter and son-in-law, Sue and Pete Rooker of Dale; and called her Grandma, grandaughters and spouses, Paula Mitchell of Shawnee, Kay and Jim Doolin of Shawnee, Rhonda and Scott Archer of Saraland, Ala., Brenda Rooker of Dale, Sherry and Harry Cramer of Edmond, Serina and Greg Brown of Tecumseh; great-grandkids whose pictures covered the walls and hid the icebox, Bruce and Joshua Mitchell, Ramona and Jeremy Ray, Jamie and Jimmy Doolin, Brad and Gina Archer, Alicia and Jason Arledge, Nikki and Craig Comolli, Charity, Regina and Sarah Archer, Kyle and Braden Cramer, FaLisa and Chrystal Alexander.

The 10 great-great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Places for their pictures had to be found on the lamp shades and curtains. Her open arms welcomed numerous nieces and nephews into her home. Many others in the community also called her Grandma.

Preceding her in death were her parent; her husband; brothers, Charlie, Claude and Bill Canada; sisters, Marie Logan, Elizabeth Kerker, Elnora McClain, Lena Hazel Sparks and an infant sister.

We will celebrate her life 2 p.m. today at the chapel of Walker Funeral Service and say goodbye at the graveside of Resthaven Memorial Park folling the memorial.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Heartland Hospice.


John C. Copeland II

Tecumseh resident John C. Copeland II, 59, died Monday, April 24, in Shawnee.
He was born Dec. 11, 1946, in Shawnee to John Clifford Copeland Sr. and Dorothea M. (McEuin) Copeland.

John lived most of his life in Tecumseh.

He was a 1965 graduate of Tecumseh High School.

On June 4, 1965, he married Elaine Blackwood in Tecumseh.

John worked at Tinker Air Force Base before becoming a security officer with the Shawnee Merchant Police, as well as a reserve deputy with the Pottawatomie County Sherriff Department. He also was an entrepreneur and business owner.

He was a founding member of the Tecumseh Historical Society and a lifetime member of N.R.A.

John had a passion for primitive hunting and historical re-enactments.

His father, John C. Copeland Sr., and his aunt and uncle, Newt and Mary Jo Copeland, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine Copeland, of his home; son and daughter-in-law, John III and Sharyl Copeland of Tecumseh; mother, Dorothea Copeland of Shawnee; two brothers, Thomas J. Copeland and Jim B. Copeland, both of Tecumseh; grandmother, Thelma Copeland of Tecumseh; stepmother, Patricia Copeland of Shawnee; uncle and aunt, Paul and Cyndi Copeland of Fort Worth, Texas; nieces and nephews, Joseph and Jennifer Copeland, Tessy Copeland, Angel Copeland and Jimmy Copeland; numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.

Service will be 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Cross Timbers Primitive Society Shooting Range, 23800 Old Hwy 18 in Tecumseh, with Newell Marsh officiating. Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is directing arrangements.

published Apr. 30, 2006

Karen Sue Yates

Wanette resident Karen Sue Yates, 54, passed away Saturday, April 15, in Comanche.
A Celebration of Life was held April 22 in her daughter's home in Comanche.

Karen was born May 17, 1951, in Canadian, Texas. She moved many times growing up and attended several schools. She graduated from Moore High School in 1969.

Karen married Clyde Yates Dec. 16, 1977, in Shawnee. They resided in Wanette from that point on.

She loved being in the country and reading books. Spending time with her family was always a favorite.

She is survived by her husband, Clyde Yates of Wanette; two daughters, Michelle Garrison and husband, Tracy Garrison, of Comanche, Amanda Yates of the home; two grandchildren, Bryan Heenan of Camp Pendleton, Calif., Brittany McMahan of Comanche; one brother, Sam Washburn of Oklahoma City; one sister, Beth Ashley of Wynnewood; two nephews; one niece; two great-nieces and two great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Betty Washburn, and her sister, Sandra Smith.

Karen was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. She will be greatly missed.


Loniel Raymond "Ray" Glover

Shawnee resident Loniel Raymond "Ray" Glover, 77, died Saturday, April 29, at his home with his wife and children at his bedside.
He was born Sept. 24, 1928, in Wanette to Paul Raymond Glover and Minnie Irene Ballard. He married Helen Helton of Shawnee on Feb. 15, 1947.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife; their three children, Jeri Fox of Montgomery, Texas; Jim Glover and his wife, Cynthia, of Corinth, Texas; Tanya Glover-Pryor of Roseville, Calif.; six grandchildren, Dramon Glover, Jimmy Glover, Summer and Shawn Cherry, Misty Spitaleri, Emily Pryor and Sarah Pryor; five sisters and one brother, Lovetia Cobb, Claudia and Gene Wellman, Beatrice and Willie Brooks, James and Sue Glover, Genice and Jim Hopkins and Geneva Glover, and several nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be today and Monday at Walker Funeral Service. Graveside service will be at Resthaven Memorial Park at 2 p.m. Tuesday.

The family thanks Prairie View Hospice.


Angela Fay Bailey

Tribbey resident Angela Fay Bailey, 32, died Wednesday, April 26.

She was born May 14, 1973, in Purcell to Martin J. Bailey and Estell (Delaney) Bailey. She lived in Tribbey most of her life and attended Wanette School.

She attended beauty college and raised boxers. She loved camping, fishing, styling hair, watching dragsters and cooking.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Billie Carpenter, Albert Bailey and Othell and MaryEtta Delaney.

Survivors include her parents, Martin and Estell Bailey of the home; two sisters, Brandi Pool and her husband, Mark, of Norman, and Priscilla Bailey of the home; and a brother, Chad Bailey and wife, Debra, of Tribbey.

Service will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Primrose Chapel. Burial will follow at Tribbey Cemetery.

Primrose Funeral Service is directing arrangements.


Inez E. Lairson

Midwest City resident Inez E. Lairson, 80, died Friday, April 28, in Midwest City.

She was born Nov. 3, 1925, in Edmond to Ralph and Vera (Griffin) Kimball. She was raised in central Oklahoma and Parker, Ariz., and lived most of her life in the Bethel/Tecumseh area. She attended Gordon Cooper Vo-Tech, where she received an associate degree for her LPN.

On April 30, 1962, she married Bartholomew "B.D." Lairson in Sallisaw, who preceded her in death on July 26, 2005.

She was a nurse all her life, working at Sunset Estates in Shawnee and Tecumseh. Later in her career she worked at Shawnee Care Center, as well as in home health care.

She was a member of the Highland Church of Christ and was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five sisters, Agnus Wilkins, Armistus Kimball, Leota Kimball, Marsha Kimball and Marjorie Lamb; three brothers, Ralph Kimball, Edgar "Bud" Kimball and Andrew "Andy" Kimball; and a grandchild, Tiffini Whorton.

Survivors include three daughters and one son-in-law, Melinda and Thomas Whorton of McLoud; Sharon Minton of Shawnee and Eunice Munday of Pocola; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Philip and Tami Lairson of Gladewater, Texas, and Loring Minton of Oklahoma City; stepsons and their spouses, Jerry and Kip Lairson of Ringold; Robert D. and Debra Lairson of Valliant, and Lee Roy Lairson of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; three sisters, Mary Dedmon, Arlene Todd and Zella Elmore; three brothers, Clyde, Aubrey and Isaac Kimball; 20 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Highland Church of Christ with Philip Lairson and David Brassfield officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee.

Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is directing arrangements.

M
Danny Ray Capes

Tecumseh resident Danny Ray Capes died Saturday, April 1, at his home. He was 58.

Danny was born June 20, 1947, in Norman to Henry H. and Eva Dean Capes. He served in the U.S. Army. While in the service, he received a commendation as an Army Sharpshooter.

Danny was a longtime mechanic and previously employed by Public Supply in Oklahoma City.

Blessed with a warm personality, a sweet smile and a big heart, Danny made many friends. He loved tinkering with old cars and trucks. He spent many afternoons playing dominoes and chess with his friends at the Potawatomi Nation Senior Center.

His parents; sister, Ida L. Capes, and his nephew, Chris Baird, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Kenny Ray and Venessa Capes of Apache; grandson, Nicholas Capes of Apache; two sisters, Mary A. Baird of Idabel, Jeffie C. Maags of Indiana; brother, Harry H. Capes of Wichita Falls, Texas; several nieces, nephews, many friends and loved ones.

A private family memorial was held.

The family would like to send special thanks to the nurses of Heartland Hospice for their loving care of Danny and their comfort to the family.

published Apr. 17, 2006

published Apr. 17, 2006